Pool Friendly

Plants around a pool need to stay tidy, keep sharp tips away from bare feet, and take the heat. The pool deck and the water bounce heat and light back onto nearby plants, the same way a hot wall does.

Mediterranean Fan Palm, Red Yucca and Desert Milkweed are known for dropping little litter. Deer Grass and Regal Mist pink muhly are clumping grasses often planted around pools.

Give trees and larger plants extra room from the pool and its plumbing. Plan for the full size, not the size it arrives in.

What to look for

• Does it drop much? Leaves, flowers and pods end up in the water and the skimmer.
• Does it have spines or sharp tips? Keep those well back from the pool edge and walkways.
• Can it take reflected heat? Look for the Reflected heat badge.
• How big will it get? Leave room so it does not crowd walkways or seating.